Returning Real Madrid star faces risk of falling behind in the pecking order amid AS Roma interest | OneFootball

Endrick returned to Real Madrid this summer on the back of a stellar loan spell at Olympique Lyon, with many expecting him to play a key role for Los Blancos in the season ahead.

However, in the early days of pre-season, things are not looking good for Endrick, who will have to cope with more competition than he would have expected.

A recent report from Gazzetta Dello Sport has given comprehensive insights into Endrick’s tricky situation at Real Madrid, heading into the new season.

Does Endrick suit Mourinho’s system?

Endrick will undergo key conditioning from Mourinho in coming weeks. (Photo by Ira L. Black/Getty Images)

According to the report, Endrick’s characteristics do not appear entirely compatible with Real Madrid’s new project under Jose Mourinho.

The Portuguese coach, aside from Kylian Mbappe, was on the lookout for a different kind of striker, a more physical presence better suited to his tactical ideas.

He found exactly that in Carlos Espi, the young forward who signed this week and impressed on his debut against Fiorentina.

That leaves Endrick as something of an awkward fit. His profile does not align neatly with what Mourinho wants from his forwards, and in an attacking line already boasting Mbappe, Vinicius Jr, Brahim Diaz and Rodrygo, the Brazilian could find himself well down the pecking order.

Endrick will reportedly undergo an evaluation from Mourinho in the coming days, a process that could prove decisive in determining his immediate future at the Bernabeu.

AS Roma and Gasperini interested

AS Roma are interested in Endrick. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

The danger for Endrick is clear. Should he slip down the order, he risks receiving few or even no minutes, a scenario that could ultimately force Real Madrid to consider sanctioning a loan move.

That possibility has not gone unnoticed elsewhere. Roma have been monitoring Endrick for over a month, with the Brazilian a genuine target for the Serie A side.

Coach Gian Piero Gasperini is a firm admirer, viewing him not just as a central striker but also as a player capable of operating on either flank.

Roma’s sporting director even travelled to Madrid recently to gauge the feasibility of a deal and assess Real Madrid’s willingness to let the player leave.

The Italians are keen to include an option to buy, much like Como did in the Nico Paz deal, to avoid the risk of developing Endrick only to lose him later.

For now, though, Endrick’s fate rests on his evaluation under Mourinho, with a pivotal few weeks ahead.